Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement sets out the steps taken by Gardeners Forest Hill to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Forest Hill operates in the gardening, landscaping, and related services sector, relying on a network of suppliers, subcontractors, and service partners. We are committed to conducting our business ethically and with integrity, and to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals who contribute to our work.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Forest Hill has a strict zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour. We do not accept, condone, or knowingly engage with any practice that exploits people or violates their fundamental human rights. This zero-tolerance policy applies to all aspects of our business, including direct employment, contracted labour, and our entire supply chain.

All managers and employees are expected to uphold this commitment and to act immediately if they identify or suspect any form of modern slavery. Any breach of this policy by employees will result in disciplinary action, which may include termination of employment. Any breach by suppliers or contractors may result in suspension or termination of contracts.

Our Supply Chain and Supplier Expectations

Our supply chain includes providers of plants, tools, materials, equipment, transport, and ancillary services. We expect all suppliers and subcontractors working with Gardeners Forest Hill to share our commitment to ethical conduct and to comply with relevant labour, employment, and human rights legislation in the countries where they operate.

We communicate our standards to existing and prospective suppliers and require them to confirm that they do not tolerate modern slavery or human trafficking in their businesses or supply chains. We reserve the right to request evidence of policies, procedures, and due diligence measures from any supplier.

Supplier Audits and Due Diligence

To support our zero-tolerance policy, Gardeners Forest Hill undertakes proportionate due diligence and auditing of suppliers, focusing on higher-risk categories such as seasonal labour, outsourced services, and imported materials. Our approach includes:

Reviewing supplier credentials and ethical commitments during onboarding. Requesting information on employment practices, worker welfare standards, and subcontracting arrangements. Conducting periodic checks or site visits where appropriate and feasible. Monitoring any reported concerns and following up with corrective action plans.

If a supplier is found to be involved in modern slavery or unable to demonstrate adequate controls, we will seek immediate remediation. Where improvements are not possible or not made within an agreed timeframe, we may terminate the relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Forest Hill encourages all employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns about modern slavery or human trafficking connected to our business or supply chain. Concerns can be raised in person to a manager, in writing to the leadership team, or through any established internal reporting mechanism. Reports may be made confidentially, and we will treat all concerns seriously and sensitively.

We will not tolerate victimisation or retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith. All reports will be investigated promptly, and where evidence of wrongdoing is found, we will take appropriate action, which may include notifying relevant authorities.

Training, Awareness, and Responsibilities

Management at Gardeners Forest Hill is responsible for implementing this statement and for ensuring that employees understand our expectations. Relevant staff, especially those involved in procurement, supplier management, and recruitment, are provided with guidance on identifying indicators of modern slavery and on how to respond to concerns.

We promote awareness of modern slavery within the business so that potential risks can be recognised early and addressed effectively.

Monitoring, Annual Review, and Continuous Improvement

Gardeners Forest Hill is committed to continuous improvement in preventing modern slavery and human trafficking. We regularly monitor our controls and review the effectiveness of our policies, supplier due diligence, and reporting mechanisms.

This statement will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect any changes in legislation, our business operations, or best practice. The annual review will consider feedback from audits, reported concerns, and consultations with key stakeholders to strengthen our approach over time.

This statement is approved by the leadership of Gardeners Forest Hill and represents our ongoing commitment to combating modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business.